There are nerves in feet which run up towards the toes, finally branching off to give sensation into the toes themselves. Sometimes these nerves can become thickened or inflamed especially between the 3rd or 4th toes and 2nd and 3rd toes.

The inflammation or thickening of the nerve is the result of the metatarsal bones, which run alongside the nerves, causing mechanical irritation to the nerve at the level of the main toe joint.

This mechanical irritation which predisposes people to neuromas is related to abnormal biomechanics, tight or compressive footwear.